New Releases: The Devil Wears Prada 2, Animal Farm, Hokum and more – Image for illustrative purposes only (Image credits: Unsplash)
Movie theaters fill up quickly this time of year, and Friday’s arrivals offer choices for fashion enthusiasts, animation fans, and horror aficionados alike. The Devil Wears Prada 2 marks a long-awaited sequel, bringing back Meryl Streep’s formidable Miranda Priestly two decades after the original’s debut.[1][2] Audiences also gain access to Andy Serkis’ animated take on George Orwell’s Animal Farm, alongside the eerie indie horror Hokum starring Adam Scott. These releases kick off a packed May calendar with variety across genres.
Fashion Power Plays Return with The Devil Wears Prada 2
The sequel picks up years after Andy Sachs left the high-stakes world of Runway magazine. Meryl Streep reprises her Oscar-nominated role as Miranda Priestly, the icy editor who demands perfection. Anne Hathaway returns as Andy, now established in her own career, while Emily Blunt and Stanley Tucci slip back into their roles as Emily Charlton and Nigel Kipling.[3][4]
David Frankel, who helmed the 2006 hit, directs again, drawing from Lauren Weisberger’s novel Revenge Wears Prada: The Devil Returns. The film explores evolving dynamics in the cutthroat fashion industry, complete with glamorous runway scenes and sharp dialogue. Rated PG-13 for language and thematic elements, it opens exclusively in theaters on May 1.[5][6]
Early buzz centers on the chemistry among the returning cast, promising nostalgic thrills for original fans. Trailers highlight Lady Gaga’s involvement with an original song, adding contemporary flair.[7] Families and friends planning outings will find this a crowd-pleaser amid spring releases.
| Film | Genre | Rating | Key Stars |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Devil Wears Prada 2 | Comedy, Drama | PG-13 | Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway |
| Animal Farm | Animation, Adventure | PG | Seth Rogen, Glenn Close (voices) |
| Hokum | Horror | R | Adam Scott |
Animal Farm Animates a Timeless Allegory
Andy Serkis steps into directing with this fully animated adaptation of George Orwell’s novella. The story follows farm animals who overthrow their human owner, only to grapple with power’s corrupting influence. Voices include Seth Rogen, Glenn Close, Steve Buscemi, Jim Parsons, Iman Vellani, and Gaten Matarazzo, bringing distinct personalities to Napoleon, Clover, Squealer, and others.[8][9]
The film premiered at the Annecy International Animation Festival in June 2025, earning praise for its visual style and relevance. Angel Studios handles distribution, positioning it for family viewings with a PG rating. Runtime clocks in at about 96 minutes, making it suitable for younger audiences open to deeper themes.[10])[11]
Serkis, known for motion-capture work in Planet of the Apes, infuses the project with heart and cautionary weight. Parents introducing classics to children may appreciate the modern animation twist.
Hokum Unleashes Atmospheric Horror
Neon brings Irish filmmaker’s supernatural tale to screens, with Adam Scott as novelist Ohm Bauman. He visits a remote inn to scatter his parents’ ashes, only to uncover legends of a haunting witch tied to honeymoon suites. The story blends psychological tension with folk horror elements.[12]
Hokum debuted at South by Southwest in March 2026, generating festival acclaim for its slow-burn scares. Rated R for violence, disturbing content, and language, it targets mature viewers seeking chills. Production hails from Ireland, UAE, and the US, contributing to its unique tone.[13])[14]
Scott’s performance anchors the film’s intimate dread, appealing to fans of cerebral frights over jump scares. Late-night showings could draw dedicated genre crowds this weekend.
Additional Picks Rounding Out the Slate
Beyond the headliners, several other films arrive Friday.
- Deep Water (R): A thriller adding to the mature options.[15]
- Swapped (PG): Family-friendly fare with a twist.
- One Spoon of Chocolate: Another diverse entry in the mix.[15]
Theatrical calendars show at least 10 total wide releases, ensuring local multiplexes stay busy.[16] Viewers juggling schedules might prioritize based on genre preferences or group dynamics.
This weekend’s diversity underscores cinema’s enduring pull, from lighthearted reunions to profound animations and edge-of-seat terrors. Families, couples, and solo adventurers alike stand to discover favorites amid the rush. Check local listings soon, as seats for these openers fill fast.
